Jah Rockaz aiming to be reggae’s next big band

Uprooted from the Jamaican soil and now based in Florida, reggae/pop band Jah Rockaz plans to revive the "authentic" side of reggae, while aiming to be "the next big musical band" from Jamaica to make a global impact.

"It's crucial for reggae to remain authentic--that's its very essence. However, while we honour the roots of reggae, we also believe in its evolution. It's essential to move beyond the sound of the '70s, incorporate new elements and embrace creativity; [and] as producers, we love experimenting with sounds and styles," the band leader, Obrian Williams, told THE WEEKEND STAR.

"Bands play a crucial role in keeping the authentic side of music alive -- not only in Jamaica, but globally. Major festivals across various genres [are] centred around bands, and celebrated reggae artistes incorporate live bands into their performances, resonating with festival-goers who prefer to experience music in its rawest form," Williams added.

The practice of musical bands making chart-topping hits alongside artistes has been eroding, since the new generation of artistes are mainly 'rolling solo', while their songs are mostly refined with autotunes. With bands such as Raging Fyah, Nomaddz and Zinc Fence no longer in the spotlight for the past few years, Jah Rockaz promised to be the new blended sound that will remind the world of the power of musical bands.

The group, which is currently back on the island to "connect with the diaspora" as they work on their upcoming single and album, said this timely decision to return to 'Jamrock' in the Reggae Month period helps them to appreciate the art even more.

"Reggae isn't merely a genre to us; it's a culture, a lifestyle, and a movement that underlies every beat and rhythm we create. Having worked with celebrated names in the industry and contributed to Reggae Month over the years, I've come to appreciate reggae as our most significant cultural export, boosting our tourism market. It draws people from all corners of the globe who wish to experience our indigenous music and culture," said Williams, while noting that starting at home seemed fitting, as Jamaica is where it all began. It's also where everything they create "takes its first breath, [as] Jamaica's roots run through our music, reflecting our culture and lifestyle".

He added that it's important for a month to be set aside to zoom in and celebrate the birth, growth and overall legacy and impact of reggae because "[It] holds immense significance for us".

"It's a celebration of the genre and a lifestyle we have devoted ourselves to, [which is] a tribute to our roots that resonates in every strum of our instrument," he said.

Jah Rockaz, which was formed in 2022, was conceptualised on a "deep-rooted friendship" between Williams and the lead vocalist, Christopher Powell, who both serve as advocates for reggae music and its push into mainstream culture. Driven by their shared love for music, culture and a chemistry that fuels their creative process, Williams said he was presented with the opportunity to relocate to America through his performances across various live music scenes in the southwest region of Florida. This allowed the group to build an organic fan base in the international sphere, expanding their brand from a musical duo to hiring other musicians, as needed, as they transcend the rhythmic beat of reggae internationally.

Jah Rockaz is set to release their debut single - Reggae is Healing - on February 28, and are slated to premiere the track while performing at the popular Janga's Soundbar and Grill on Wednesday.

" Reggae Is Healing is fresh out of the oven, aiming to uplift the mind, spirit, body, and soul of our listeners. The title reflects our belief in reggae's ongoing rebirth, initiating a wave that will bring back live bands. We're excited about our music's impact, as we sense a growing appetite for good, authentic music," Williams stated.

He said the band will be releasing a new song each quarter this year, followed by an album and upcoming tours across the USA, UK, Europe and Japan.